Rare black & nickel version of the Biotar 40mm f2, produced in small quantities. The black version was made in limited numbers during 1933, the era of the Contax I, while chrome-plated versions began production around 1936. According to certain sources, only 360 units of the Biotar with the 40mm designation were produced, making it quite scarce.
According to Hartmut Thiele’s Carl Zeiss Jena lens serial number chart, this particular lens was shipped in 1933, the year of its initial production. Although labeled as 40mm, the actual focal length of this Biotar was 42.5mm, and by around 1937, the designation was changed to 4 1/4cm (42.5mm).
The lens construction is 4 groups of 6 elements, with distance markings in meters.
Mounted on a black Contax, the black Biotar exudes an imposing and captivating subdued shine. Even just admiring it is a delight.
The black paint on the areas frequently touched by fingers shows some wear, but there are no noticeable scratches or dents. The lens underwent a full overhaul in 2023. The aperture ring and helicoid ring retain an excellent feel with precise torque.
The front element of the lens has some light cleaning marks and shows slight signs of aging on the glass, but overall, the lens is in good condition for a Biotar 40mm, which is known for its soft rendering. The image results are excellent.
Previous test shots are available for viewing; they show the unique peripheral softness of the Biotar while maintaining sharpness in the center, offering a classic old lens rendering experience.
The original front cap is included.
